PLU codes, the numerical stickers found on fresh produce, provide more than just checkout convenience—they indicate how the produce was grown. Managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS) since 1990, these codes help classify fruits and vegetables based on their cultivation methods. A four-digit code (starting with ‘3’ or ‘4’) signifies conventional farming, while a five-digit code beginning with ‘9’ denotes organic produce. Although the ‘8’ prefix was initially reserved for genetically modified (GM) foods, it was never widely implemented, making PLU codes unreliable for identifying GM produce.
Understanding PLU codes empowers consumers to make informed choices, ensuring their purchases align with personal health and ethical preferences. By recognizing these codes, shoppers can distinguish between conventionally and organically grown produce, verify proper labeling, and support sustainable farming practices. Opting for organic items, marked by a ‘9’ prefix, encourages environmentally friendly agriculture while reducing exposure to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.